SAFE WORKING IN CONFINED SPACES

Hazards in confined spaces include poor air quality; chemical, biological, radiation and fire hazards; extreme noise and temperature; low visibility and process-related hazards such as residual chemicals. Unfavourable natural ventilation can also compound the situation and it is the utmost responsibility of all employers to ensure the safety and health of workers and prevent any form of injury, illness or death arising from exposure to these hazards. Those working in a confined space have to exercise great care and concern because it is more hazardous than regular work sites. Workers who are injured or lose their lives are a loss not only to their employers but also the country as they are important contributors to economic and social development. The Employer and the contractor must be investigated to check whether they adhered to the rules and regulations stipulated by the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) 1994. They have to ensure that the workers were certified whether they followed the guidelines in the Industry Code of Practice (ICOP) for Working in a Confined Space 2010.